Discovering some of Hampshire's finest country estates and houses ....

Farleigh Wallop Estate

Nestled in the rolling countryside south of Basingstoke, Farleigh Wallop Estate has been owned by the same family for generations and is a wonderful example of a traditional Hampshire country estate. Covering thousands of acres of farmland, woodland and parkland, it combines modern farming with conservation and sustainable land management. The estate is also well known for its Christmas tree plantations and its close links with the nearby Bombay Sapphire Distillery, making it a thriving working estate as well as a beautiful part of rural Hampshire.

Ewhurst Park

Located near Tadley, Ewhurst Park is a progressive country estate that combines centuries of heritage with a modern focus on sustainability and regenerative farming. Ancient woodland, lakes and open farmland provide a haven for wildlife, while carefully restored buildings now host artisan food producers, events and outdoor experiences. It has become one of Hampshire's most exciting rural destinations, demonstrating how traditional estates can evolve while protecting the natural environment.

The Grange

Near the village of Northington lies The Grange, one of Hampshire's most architecturally impressive country houses. Built in the early nineteenth century, its striking Greek Revival façade has earned it the nickname "The English Parthenon". Surrounded by landscaped parkland, the house is now home to The Grange Festival, where world-class opera, jazz and theatre performances take place each summer in a spectacular setting.

Stansted Park

Although the house itself sits just over the Hampshire border in West Sussex, Stansted Park has long been associated with Hampshire and its estate extends into the county. The magnificent Edwardian mansion is surrounded by over 1,800 acres of historic parkland, woodland and gardens. Visitors can explore beautifully furnished interiors, enjoy scenic walks, browse the garden centre and tea rooms, and attend a variety of seasonal events throughout the year.

Highclere Castle

Perhaps Hampshire's most internationally recognised country house, Highclere Castle became famous as the setting for the television series Downton Abbey. Home to the Carnarvon family since the seventeenth century, the magnificent Victorian mansion sits within over 5,000 acres of landscaped parkland designed by Capability Brown. Visitors can explore the elegant state rooms, extensive gardens and fascinating Egyptian Exhibition celebrating the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb by the 5th Earl of Carnarvon.

Avington Park

Set beside the crystal-clear waters of the River Itchen near Winchester, Avington Park is one of Hampshire's hidden gems. The elegant Georgian mansion overlooks beautiful parkland, lakes and formal gardens that have evolved over several centuries. Although privately owned, the estate occasionally opens for special events, weddings and guided visits, offering a rare opportunity to experience one of Hampshire's finest historic houses.

Laverstoke Park Farm

Owned by JCB Chairman Lord Bamford, Laverstoke Park Farm is one of Britain's leading examples of organic and sustainable farming. The estate is internationally recognised for its commitment to biodiversity, animal welfare and environmentally responsible food production. While the farm itself is not generally open to visitors, its influence on sustainable agriculture has made it one of Hampshire's most respected modern estates.

Mottisfont

Managed by the National Trust, Mottisfont is one of Hampshire's most loved historic estates. Originally founded as an Augustinian priory in the twelfth century before being transformed into a country house, it is particularly famous for its magnificent walled rose garden, riverside walks and impressive art collections. Throughout the year visitors enjoy seasonal gardens, exhibitions, family events and peaceful walks along the River Test.

Uppark

Perched high on the South Downs overlooking Hampshire, Uppark is an elegant eighteenth-century country house cared for by the National Trust. After being devastated by fire in 1989, the house underwent one of Britain's most remarkable restoration projects and today showcases beautifully restored interiors, exquisite collections and breathtaking views across the surrounding countryside.

Broadlands

Located on the edge of Romsey, Broadlands has been home to the Mountbatten family for generations and remains one of Hampshire's most distinguished country estates. The elegant Palladian mansion stands within extensive landscaped parkland designed by Capability Brown. Broadlands has welcomed royalty, statesmen and international leaders over the centuries and continues to host open days, events and guided tours during selected periods each year.

Hackwood Park

Just south of Basingstoke, Hackwood Park is one of Hampshire's grandest private estates. The impressive eighteenth-century mansion sits within beautifully landscaped parkland and woodland created by Capability Brown. Although the house remains privately owned and is rarely open to the public, its impressive architecture and sweeping landscape make it one of the county's finest hidden country estates.

Pylewell Park

Overlooking the Solent near Lymington, Pylewell Park offers one of Hampshire's most spectacular coastal settings. The Victorian country house is surrounded by rolling parkland, woodland and panoramic sea views stretching towards the Isle of Wight. Today the estate is particularly well known as an outstanding wedding venue, while its gardens and grounds are occasionally opened for charity events and seasonal attractions.

Dogmersfield Park

Situated between Fleet and Hook, Dogmersfield Park has a history stretching back nearly a thousand years. Once visited by King Henry VIII, the estate later became a grand country house before being transformed into the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire. Surrounded by hundreds of acres of parkland, lakes and woodland, it remains one of Hampshire's finest country estates and offers visitors exceptional dining, spa facilities and outdoor activities.

Stratfield Saye House

Gifted to the Duke of Wellington following his victory at the Battle of Waterloo, Stratfield Saye House has been the family seat of the Dukes of Wellington ever since. The elegant Georgian mansion is surrounded by extensive parkland and woodland and remains one of Hampshire's most historically significant private estates. During selected open days visitors can admire both the house and the magnificent Wellington Monument within the grounds.

Beaulieu Estate

Few Hampshire estates offer as much variety as the Beaulieu Estate in the heart of the New Forest. Home to Palace House, Beaulieu Abbey, the National Motor Museum and thousands of acres of woodland and heathland, the estate has been owned by the Montagu family since the sixteenth century. Visitors can easily spend an entire day exploring its historic buildings, gardens, exhibitions and attractions before venturing into the surrounding New Forest National Park.

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